Take the Dirty Dozen challenge: Conquer the 13 steepest hills around Pittsburgh

Are you ready to tackle the city’s biggest hills?

One of Pittsburgh’s most popular bicycling events turns 35 years old on Saturday, November 25th, 2017. The Dirty Dozen Bicycle Ride takes you on a 50-mile journey from Highland Park, through the North Hills and the North side, across the Roberto Clemente and Smithfield Street bridges, through the South Hills and the South Side, ending in Hazelwood. Typically, the ride takes 5+ hours to complete because of the stops and the easy pace between the hills.

According to Next Pittsburgh, Dirty Dozen founder Danny Chew will return to the Dirty Dozen this year and plans to cheer on riders on his handcycle atop Canton Avenue.

Perhaps you saw the WQED Dirty Dozen video and thought: “One year, I would like to try that”… well here’s your chance! Known as one of the most challenging rides around, trying your hand at one or more of the Dozen hills is a great way to test out your legs before attempting all 13.

4 Hills to try before the DD:

Logan Street in Millvale

Pro tip: Stay seated and save your energy for the top (you’re going to need it).

Suffolk / Hazelton / Burgess in Fineview

Pro tip: Stand and power though Hazelton. Practice the cobbles on Burgess.

Canton Avenue in Beechview

Pro tip: Momentum won’t help. Trust us.

Barry / Holt / Eleanor in the South Side

Pro tip: The real hill does not start until Eleanor. When you get there….DON’T LOOK UP.

PS. Berryhill Road will be closed for the winter on November 22nd, so it is quite likely that Christopher Street will again be the third hill. Check out the full route here.

So….Should I ride the Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen is right around the corner and we know what you’re thinking: “Should I try it this year?” Well, you’re in luck! BikePGH has made it easier than ever with this handy flow chart:

Challenge accepted?

Online registration is open! On event day, those who have registered in advance will only need to pick up their numbers, and sign waivers if they haven’t already. Registration will also be available on event day (just be sure to arrive early).

WHEN:

Competing riders will leave at 9:00 am. Other strong riders should plan to leave in groups in the range of 9:00 to 9:30 am, and remaining riders will leave in groups from 9:30 to 10:00 am.

WHERE:

Bud Harris Cycling Track
1401 Washington Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206

AFTERPARTY:

Not interested, but still want to participate?

Volunteer! The Dirty Dozen needs dozens of volunteers to make the event happen and keep the riders safe. Specifically they are looking for marshals to help at intersections with 2-hours shifts available throughout the race. They also need volunteers to help with bikes at the East End Brewery after party. E-mail sarah.quesen at gmail.com if you would like more info. Or you can check out the Dirty Dozen party ride.

Aero Tech Designs 2017 Dirty Dozen Cycling Jersey

The 2017 jerseys are ready for pre-order. Shipping starts the week of 11/20. 40% of each jersey goes directly to Danny Chew!